Devotionals for December 18, 2024

Middle & high school students, we have NLS tonight at 6pm! 

Habakkuk 3:17-19
Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to tread on the heights.

Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The secret of true joy is right in front of us. It doesn’t take a self-help influencer, an expensive program, or the energy of others. God provides joy during your most challenging days. And joy also takes a choice. It’s not passive according to Scripture. Note how Habakkuk declares “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD” and how Paul exhorts the church to pray “in every situation.” This means joy won’t come accidentally. Rather, it comes by abiding in Jesus every day. 

Q: What ultimately guards your heart and mind?

Q: What are you anxious about lately? Choose to rejoice and bring your burdens to God in prayer today.

Q: You’re also meant to pray and rejoice in community. Who’s one brother or sister in Christ you can connect with today?

"Give us today our daily bread."

Lord, you are my delight and joy. Thank you, Jesus, for being the bread of life and all that I need. Amen.